Cooper was selected ahead of Sol Bamba for Leeds’ match against Nottingham Forest, in a controversial selection choice.

However, Evans insists that he made the right decision, as the former Chesterfield’s man’s form has been very strong this campaign.

"I thought Liam Cooper had a good game today, I thought he had been outstanding in the build up to the Bolton match," Evans said. "He deserved to go back into the team, and if they deserve to play, they’ll play."

Cooper missed out on playing in the Whites’ cup victory over Bolton last weekend due to injury, but he appears to be part of Evans’ first choice line-up.

His partnership with Giuseppe Bellusci has been a strong one, and the 24-year-old has now made 29 appearances for Leeds this season.

Cooper’s move ahead of Bamba in the pecking order at Elland Road, has seen speculation rise over the Ivorian’s future at the Yorkshire club.

Bamba was linked with Newcastle United and Sunderland in January (Daily Star), and if he cannot find a way to break back into Evans’ team soon then rumours over a possible exit are only set to grow louder in the summer.

John Verrall

John is a sports journalism graduate from Staffordshire University. He is a huge football fan and a minute-by-minute writer for UEFA.com, as well as being a freelance writer for Sports New Media. John has also seen his work been published by the likes of The Guardian, World Soccer and Shoot Magazine over the course of his bourgeoning journalism career so far. He has a particular expertise in all things to do with the Football League – and is a passionate Peterborough United fan.